To Gord Jenkins RE: Retirement of Brian Ferguson

After a very successful career in the Public Service, Brian Ferguson, Sr. Assistant Deputy Minister, Policy, Programs and Partnerships Branch, Veterans Affairs Canada, recently announced his retirement, effective November 30, 2010.

Brian's expertise and experience will be missed and I'm sure you'll join me in wishing him the best in his future endeavours. A proper send off to celebrate Brian's career is being planned in January and as the date draws closer, we will be sure to inform you of the details.

As well, I'd like to update you on some organizational changes within the Department. Given the need for our Department to adapt to a rapidly changing client demographic profile, it is critically important to strengthen our capacity to anticipate the needs and take appropriate action to meet these needs. In this regard, I intend to bring together the policy, communications and commemoration activities in one Branch. A competitive process is underway for a new Assistant Deputy Minister, and the integration of these functions will happen upon the appointment of this new Assistant Deputy Minister. Until a replacement for the position is finalized, Bernard Butler will take on the role of Acting Assistant Deputy Minister, Programs and Partnerships Branch.

The Program Management Division will integrate its operations in the Service Delivery (SD) Branch. This will ensure our program outcomes are more clearly and strongly linked to our service delivery processes as we transform.

Looking forward to seeing you at Brian's retirement function in January.

Suzanne Tining
Deputy Minister
Veterans Affairs Canada

VAC News Release
Support Construction of NEW War Memorials

November 10, 2010

Government to Support Construction of New War Memorials

Ottawa - The Honourable Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Minister of State (Agriculture), today announced a new program to help communities commemorate the achievements and sacrifices of Canada’s Veterans, past and present.

“This Veterans’ Week, we are encouraging Canadians to make remembrance more than something they feel by making it something they do,” said Minister Blackburn. “With this new program, communities will show they remember by constructing new places to honour Canada’s truest heroes-our Veterans.”

The Community War Memorial Program will see $1 million per year over the next five years go toward the construction of new war memorials in communities across Canada.

The new Community War Memorial Program will provide funding up to 50 percent of the total project cost, up to a maximum amount of $50,000 to non-profit organizations, as well as provinces, territories and municipalities for the construction of new memorials in Canadian communities.

Eligible project expenses are capital costs, such as building materials, equipment rentals, and landscaping required for accessibility. Each application will be assessed by an external review committee which will include representation from national Veterans’ organizations as well as conservation experts.

Through this program, the Government of Canada is fulfilling its Budget 2010 commitment to partner with communities across Canada to build memorials to commemorate the achievements and sacrifices made by those who served our country.

For more information on the Community War Memorial Program, or to apply for funding, visit the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca

Care for those who need it most

In the coming five years, modern-day veterans will out-number traditional veterans. This shift in demographics means that policies need to adapt to reflect these changes

Accordingly, the federal government will be investing $52.5 million over five years as additional support to establish a legacy of care for seriously injured CF personnel and their families. This will mean an increase in monthly financial support for severely injured veterans who are unable to return to work, and a boost of the minimum annual income support for some veterans released at lower salary levels.

Both ministers emphasized the importance of being attentive to the needs of our veterans and providing the kind of support that will fully meet those needs.

“We have been listening to our veterans and their families," Mr. Blackburn said, "and we are determined to do whatever it takes to serve them as they have served Canada, and all Canadians, with courage and distinction. While we have already made sweeping changes to our programs, our services and our benefits, we recognize that more needs to be done. These new measures will make a real difference in the lives of our nation's heroes.”

Mr. MacKay reiterated the need to ensure that programs and services are available to those who need them - veterans and their families.

“Our men and women in uniform need to know that their government is dedicated to supporting them during and following their service to Canada," he said. "This government is listening to their concerns and taking the steps necessary to address the changing needs of Canadian Forces personnel, veterans and their families. These new measures will help us reach that goal.”

The new measures are expected to benefit more than 4 000 veterans over the course of the next five years and will very much improve their quality of life. A total of $2 billion will be spent to ensure that veterans who have been seriously injured in the service of Canada have access to the support they deserve.

The proposed improvements are intended to bring concrete results, such as those in the following scenarios:

Master Corporal Smith experienced a serious injury resulting in a total and permanent impairment, and will not be able to work again to his full potential. He will now receive $1 000 more per month for the rest of his life. This amount is in addition to an allowance of between $536 and $1 609 per month, and is payable in addition to any income support he is eligible to receive.

Private Tremblay is a veteran who is currently in rehabilitation. While she currently receives a benefit for lost earnings of 75 percent of her pre-release salary, these new changes mean that her income support will be increased to a minimum, pre-tax, annual income of about $40 000.

The announced improvements are one of many ways the federal government gives back to Canada's veterans, a group of people who have given so much to their country

Korean Service Badge

. . apparently time is running out to receive one small lapel pin that designates Canadians who served in Korea during the war.

It is the Korea Service Badge, obtainable in writing through Veterans Affairs Canada.

According to retired Major Murray Edwards, who served in Korea with the Princess Patricia's, he was successful in getting the application period extended through 2010.

So anyone who has not received the pin should at once apply for it. It seems the "cut off" date is the end of this year.

Here is the address and the criteria for receiving it.

Award Criteria
Korean War veterans who served with the Canadian forces or associated support groups between June 27, 1950, and July 27, 1954 are eligible for the badge. The immediate family of a deceased veteran may also apply for the badge.

Badge Design
The badge is gold and enamel designed for wear on civilian clothing. It is a circle, 3/4" (19mm) in diameter; the centre a red maple leaf on a cream coloured shield; the outer circle green with the words "KOREA-COREE 1050-1953"; the reverse plain with a stamped serial number and clutch pin fastener.

Veterans who are applying for the badge themselves can call 1-877-995-5003 to provide VAC with the request and service information.

Notes of Interest by Ron McNulty

The above picture show the HMCS Haida a WWII tribal class destroyer that served during WWII and after for another period during NATO problems. There also are two aircraft carriers HMCS Magnificent favourably known as the Maggie and HMCS Bonaventure aka Bonnie. These 2 and the light cruiser HMCS Quebec served in watch during the cold war era and NATO tasks.

Ron McNulty and Peter Kanis both served on the aircraft carriers and the cruiser. They both were in Ireland for commissioning of the Bonaventure. They are members of Unit 5 Cambridge NATO Veteran's Organization.

The new ships of todays navy are frigates and coastal vessels. There are 12 new frigates that have been built, I believe they are much larger than the old destroyers or destroyer escorts. A few of them are HMCS Fredericton, HMCS Winnipeg, Ville de Quebec, Montreal, Calgary, Vancouver etc. Also fairly new are the coastal ships. I think there are six of these - two are named HMCS Moncton and HMCS Nanaimo. The above frigates and coastal patrol ships serve under United Nations or NATO as requested. Included is a picture of Admiral Landymore who was chief of staff and from Brantford. Admiral Nelles another Brantford admiral and chief of staff as well.

Both Brantford Sea Cadets and Navy League Cadets carry these Admirals names. The Sea Cadets [Nelles] the Navy League Cadets [Landymore] Infomation on these two admirals is included in the official writing below

Submitted by
Ron McNulty

TAKE A VETERAN TO DINNER

The TAKE A VETERAN TO DINNER Organization invites veterans to contact them to coordinate the taking of veterans to dinner....for details, see: http://veteransdinner.ca/ . The dinner is FREE for veterans. Each veteran will be individually hosted by a sponsor. The Dinner is planned for SUNDAY OCT 24th at Tudor Hall (a banquet hall near the Uplands Airport) between 5 and 9 PM. Vets should call (613) 680-5486 as soon as possible as this special vets-recognition annual event is rapidly growing in popularity. This is dinner is independantly organized and sponsored by non-government agencies seeking to recognize, honour and respect VETERANS prior to Remembrance Day.

New Operational Service Medal Announced

OTTAWA - Following the announcement made by the Governor General of Canada, the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, is pleased to convey the news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has approved the creation of the Operational Service Medal (OSM). As part of the second wave of announcements following a major review of all recognition provided for overseas service, this much welcome addition to the Canadian honours system fills a gap in the overseas recognition framework. The OSM will provide long-awaited recognition for military operations for which there were no medals available.

“Canada is committed to contributing to international stability and security by assisting those in need,” said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. “As Canadian Forces members are sent abroad in the service of Canada, our new overseas recognition framework ensures that they receive the recognition that they deserve.”

The OSM will be awarded to those who, on or after 7 October 2001, served in a theatre of operations, but not in the presence of an armed enemy. Also eligible are those who worked in direct support of approved operations or served under dangerous circumstances outside Canada, provided the service has not been recognized through another service medal.

The OSM will be issued with different ribbons identifying specific theatres of operations, including South-West Asia, Sierra Leone (Op SCULPTURE), Haiti (Op HALO), and Sudan (Op AUGURAL). In addition, a Humanitas ribbon was created to recognize humanitarian service, which will include Canada’s most recent relief efforts in Haiti (Op HESTIA) and an Expedition ribbon was created to cover smaller operations conducted in dangerous circumstances outside of Canada.

An inaugural presentation ceremony, presided over by the Governor General, will take place at a later date.

For my upcoming meeting with the Minister of Veteran Affairs on 15 Sept 2010 the question of military pensions will come up and I would like to know the feeling of the membership.

Do you favor:

The former system of granting a pension for life for an injury;

The current system of a one time bulk payment as approved in the New Veteran's Charter’

or

Some combination of A/and B above?

Could I have your vote for either A, B, or C by the end of August - this will help guide us in our NATO Vet response at meeting

The Group of Seven

As you know the Minister meets regularly with "The Group of Six" (- the Royal Canadian Legion/ANAVETS/Chattertons Group/CAVUNP and two other old time vet groups

Well now it is "The Group of Seven"!!!!!!!!!!

The NATO Vet Org has now been asked to join this Group by Senior Policy Advisor to Minister of VA at request of the Minister VA

-now the Group that meets with the Minister is called "The Group of Seven" and Cal Bellamy and I are to meet -along with the other 6 Presidents - with the Minister on 15 Sept 2010.

As the person who called said "they want the modern day veterans represented"!

OK - now it is time we got serious! Now it is time we did some work!

Away we go!!!

Gord

Letter to the Editor

As the veterans of the Second World War and Korea pass away, the Canadian government appears to be set to reduce the function of the Veterans Affairs Department drastically. Instead of continuing the long standing support to veterans and their families, the government proposes to downsize the Department and form one that merely arranges remembrance functions once every couple of years and hands out cheques to members of Canada's modern -day veterans (as the Minister referred to them in his letter to me on July 19, 2010) Those disabled veterans of the modern conflicts who qualify may be awarded so many dollars for a lost eye and so many dollars for other disabilities based on a handy little chart that details what each of these disabilities should cost the country. With such limited scope, it will be possible to reduce Veterans Affairs to a several clerks and a few chiefs.

This will undoubtedly save the federal government some money, but will it serve Canada's modern-day veterans in the way that Canadians expect them to be served?

There are tens of thousands of modern-day veterans. They have served our country throughout the Cold War, during Peace Keeping missions and Afghanistan. Sadly, there will be more such operations in the future. Will it serve the families of those veterans who have lost a loved one ? Will it pay for the anguish of waiting for a service person to come home from an operational tour? Will it offer support to those who have suffered physical or mental trauma that have long standing effects?

Will it pay for side effects that do not surface for years after an incident? Will the money ensure that a bed is available in an institution such as the Perley Rideau Veteran's Residence when it is required?

Based on the number of people who come out to the 11th of November ceremonies and who line the Highway of Heroes when a casualty returns from Afghanistan, I would say that the Canadian people expect more from the federal government when it comes to support of Canadian veterans whether they be old or modern-day veterans. A second class downsized Department is not good enough-not for those who serve and not for the country who honour them.

When veterans march on the 11th of Nov they do not differentiate between old and modern-day veterans. They march shoulder-to-shoulder as veterans who have served their country to the best of their ability and expect nothing less from the country they serve.

It is vital that the Department of Veterans Affairs continues to reflect by its presence and its dollars the value Canadians place on the men and women who serve us and fight to uphold our way of life with distinction and honour -all veterans - old and modern day!

Commissionaires

Commissionaires has recently developed a brief video titled: Veteran Impact Video intended to assist in veteran career transition, while providing a sense of the work environment and employment opportunities available within our organization.

As your organization is also involved with the veteran community, Canadian Forces and RCMP, we would like to invite NATO Veterans Organization of Canada to view the video, and if it proves to be of value to your program(s), we would ask if you would like to take part in posting our video on your website. The objective of this initiative is to provide those who have served Canada and are now seeking employment, an opportunity to learn about the career possibilities with Commissionaires.

Commissionaires provides employment to veterans of the Canadian Forces, and former members of the RCMP of all ages. Employment opportunities range from security personnel, identification officers, management and executive positions. Our offices span Canada from coast-to-coast-to-coast and employ more than 19,000 employees. Commissionaires exemplifies a strong, united company that offers a satisfying work environment which is an ideal next career for veterans anywhere in the country.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULY 14, 2010

CUTS TO VETERANS AFFAIRS DEPARTMENT NOT NECESSARY

Department can be re-focused to better assist modern day veterans and their families, says NDP

HALIFAX - Reports suggesting that Stephen Harper’s government may dispense with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VAC) or reduce the number of employees because of a shrinking veterans population are distressing to Canadian Forces (CF) and RCMP veterans and their families.

“These comments show just how out of touch this Conservative government is,” said New Democrat Veterans Affairs Critic Peter Stoffer (Sackville-Eastern Shore).

The reality is there are hundreds of thousands of modern day Canadian Forces and RCMP veterans and their families who require assistance from this department.

“There is lots of work for Minister Blackburn to do. I hear from many CF and RCMP veterans and their families on a daily basis who cannot access programs from a Department that is supposed to assist them,” said Stoffer.

If it was more forward-thinking, Stoffer suggested that the VAC Department would not have to cut employees or reduce its size. He proposes VAC could keep its current staff levels by focusing on reducing wait times to process disability pension and health care applications. He added that the Minister should amend legislation to allow post-Korea CF and RCMP members access to veterans hospitals or departmental beds. VAC employees should also be given more responsibility to decide on choosing disability pension eligibility instead of using appointed members of the public who sit on the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.

Stoffer also urged the Minister to make the report on the future role and responsibilities of the VAC Department public so that everyone can have input into the discussion.

“I urge Minister Blackburn to think about providing better service to all of our veterans, both young and old, instead of musing about shrinking the department due to a declining population of older veterans,” said Stoffer. “It’s shameful that our honoured veterans need to rely on food banks in Calgary and homeless shelters.

“Really, the sky is the limit in terms of what our government could provide for those who sacrifice so much in service to our country.”

A Poem Worth Reading

JUST A COMMON SOLDIER
(A Soldier Died Today)
by A. Lawrence Vaincourt

He was getting old and paunchy and his hair was falling fast,
And he sat around the Legion, telling stories of the past.
Of a war that he had fought in and the deeds that he had done,
In his exploits with his buddies; they were heroes, every one.

And tho' sometimes, to his neighbors, his tales became a joke,
All his Legion buddies listened, for they knew whereof he spoke.
But we'll hear his tales no longer for old Bill has passed away,
And the world's a little poorer, for a soldier died today.

He will not be mourned by many, just his children and his wife,
For he lived an ordinary and quite uneventful life.
Held a job and raised a family, quietly going his own way,
And the world won't note his passing, though a soldier died today.

When politicians leave this earth, their bodies lie in state,
While thousands note their passing and proclaim that they were great.
Papers tell their whole life stories, from the time that they were young,
But the passing of a soldier goes unnoticed and unsung.

Is the greatest contribution to the welfare of our land
A guy who breaks his promises and cons his fellow man?
Or the ordinary fellow who, in times of war and strife,
Goes off to serve his Country and offers up his life?

A politician's stipend and the style in which he lives
Are sometimes disproportionate to the service that he gives.
While the ordinary soldier, who offered up his all,
Is paid off with a medal and perhaps, a pension small.

It's so easy to forget them for it was so long ago,
That the old Bills of our Country went to battle, but we know
It was not the politicians, with their compromise and ploys,
Who won for us the freedom that our Country now enjoys.

Should you find yourself in danger, with your enemies at hand,
Would you want a politician with his ever-shifting stand?
Or would you prefer a soldier, who has sworn to defend
His home, his kin and Country and would fight until the end?

He was just a common soldier and his ranks are growing thin,
But his presence should remind us we may need his like again.
For when countries are in conflict, then we find the soldier's part
Is to clean up all the troubles that the politicians start.

If we cannot do him honor while he's here to hear the praise,
Then at least let's give him homage at the ending of his days.
Perhaps just a simple headline in a paper that would say,
Our Country is in mourning, for a soldier died today.

The following reunion announcement is hereby forwarded on behalf the Secretary/Treasurer RCCS Association (Atlantic Division).

The 27th Annual Reunion for the RCCS Association (Atlantic Division) will be held again this year in Sydney, Cape Breton Island, on September 24th and 25th, 2010.

A block of 40 rooms has been reserved on the ground floor level at $99.00 per night, plus tax at the Days Inn, 480 Kings Road, Sydney, N.S. Call for reservations at toll free 1-877-834-0333 or local calls 1-902-539-6750. When booking your room please refer to RCCS Reunion and must be booked prior to August 24th. Take Kings Road Exit off the highway to the Days Inn.

Meet & Greet and registration will be held Friday, September 24th from 1800 hours until 2200 hours ( 6 PM to 10 PM) at the Officer Mess, Sydney Military Garrison, Esplanade, Sydney.

Social Gathering, following the Cenotaph Service at the Branch 12 Legion, 101 Dorchester Street form 1400 hours until 1600 hours (2 PM to 4 PM).

Banquet & Dance, Saturday evening at 1800 hours until Midnight (6 PM until 12 PM), Officer Mess, Sydney Military Garrison, Esplanade. A draw will be made again this year for a 13 inch bronze RCCS Jimmy Statue.

What your Organization is doing

First of all I would like to announce that on CANADA DAY your President Gord Jenkins, has bee requested by the Prime Ministers Office to be in attendance with other Veteran Organizations on the main stage of Parliament Hill to receive the Queen, Prince Phillip, and the Prime Ministerof Canada.

This quite an Honour, as I feel we have now been recognized by the Government of Canada, and alll MILITARY groups, watch your TV on CANADA DAY, and see you Organization at work for it’s Members. Your President will be displaying The NATO Veterans Crest on his Blazer.

BBQ, Relayed, Reunion, Benys-sur-mer

Kingston BBQ & Games Day: A special thanks goes out to Gord Penney for his efforts in organizing the function, and to the merry band of gentlemen who are always there to help out. Noel Coward, Ron Knapton, Al Lawless, Larry Rodgers, Phil Lee and a special thanks to Jim Gratto who not only donated a carving but pestered everyone into buying tickets. A PDF of photos and comments has been created. I am just waiting for it to be added to the website then I will send the link.
>>>>>>>>>>

Relayed from Gary Hayes: The 4`h of May 2010 marked the 100`h Anniversary of the Naval Service of Canada. As part of this historic event, a special naval cairn honouring Canada's senior service will be unveiled in Kingston's Navy Memorial Park adjacent to the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes the 17`h of July 2010. Consider a donation to help offset the financial cost associated with mounting this 100`h Anniversary cairn?
If interested, make cheque payable to Navy League of Canada (Kingston Branch) - Naval Cairn mailed to Capt. (N) John Plant, OMM, CD. 1295 Highway #2 East, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 4Vl.
>>>>>>>>>>

Pacific Signaller's Reunion. Reminder that Reunion 2010 will be held in August, Friday - Saturday - Sunday 27-28-29. Again this year we will be gathering at the Qualicum First Nation Campground Details are at: http://www.troywoodintarsia.com/pacsigs/pacsigs.htm Once on the website link, scroll to appropriate button. For warned if you want to reserve sites at the camp site better commit real soon. Knowing your intentions by end June would realllllllllllly be appreciated by the planners
>>>>>>>>>>

Benys-sur-mer 6Th of June commemoration
Jack Tennant sent along several photos of the commemoration at Benys-sur-mer. For a complete viewing I suggest you contact him. As always contact info is available through the members only portal. Or I can relay an email to him for you. I selected this single photo of the Gravestone of LCPL Elmer Swan Royal Canadian Corp of Signals . We shall remember them.
>>>>>>>>>>

Other Associations: I receive many emails from various members which are forwards from KOREAN VETERANs Association, Veterans Affairs and other agencies. I do not want to ignore these perhaps important items yet I wonder how many members who are interested in this news already subscribe to the posts: thus I am just repeating known information and consuming bandwidth.
So my thought is to simply make the various links known and you can visit or ignore at your pleasure

Korean War Veteran
An Independent Newsletter Dedicated to the Sacrifice and Indomitable Spirit of Veterans of the Korean War
you can subscribe to
Koreavetnews@aol.com

Peter Scott
Public Relations Coordinator
Signallers Club of Canada
pr@the-sigs-club.ca

The Memory Project

On Thu, May 13, 2010 at 3:00 PM, Kailee Novikoff wrote:

Hello Mr. Jenkins, my name is Kailee Novikoff and I am writing on behalf of the Historica-Dominion Institute’s Memory Project Speakers’ Bureau. The Memory Project is a national speakers’ bureau of veterans from all conflicts and CF personnel who volunteer their time to speak with local schools and community groups. We currently have almost 1500 volunteer speakers and fill roughly 750 visits each year. As mentioned, the Memory Project is a completely volunteer commitment. If someone should join, they would simply provide us with contact details and a bit about their service experiences. When we had a request for a speaker in their area (we receive the majority of requests in the 6 weeks leading up to Nov. 11) we would call and suggest the visit. We tend not to ask volunteers to travel further than 20 min from their homes and any visit request can be accepted or declined based on the speakers’ interest and schedule.

As the majority of our volunteers are Second World War veterans, we are actively working to engage post Korean War veterans, including Peacekeepers and NATO vets as well as serving CF personnel to join the speakers’ bureau.

I am wondering if it would be possible to get a mailing list to send a package of information out to your branches and spread the word among your members about the opportunity to join our program. Alternatively, I could draft an email to be sent out should you have an email contact for the members as a whole.

Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated and I would be happy to speak with you further about better ways to engage all NATO members with the Memory Project. I invite you to browse our website www.thememoryproject.com (this is a general page for all our military/veteran initiatives, but click on the top right icon for the Speakers’ Bureau) for more information.

Best,

Kailee Novikoff
Programme Coordinator
The Memory Project

N.A.T.O. - 60TH ANNIVERSARY

April 4- 2009

N.A.T.O. VETERANS ORGANIZATION

60TH ANNIVERSARY

Hello, and welcome everyone: My name is Gerry Bryan.

I would like to take a moment to THANK the representatives of the Federal and Provincial Governments, the City of Brantford and Brant County Mayors, plus the R C Legion branches and other Veterans Associations, Our guest speaker, who will speak to you shortly. Sea, Army and Air Cadets, and numerous Guest that are attending this event,

The 60th Anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. NATO.

Sixty years ago today, April 4th, 1949.Twelve nations signed a Treaty called NATO and CANADA was one of those Nations.

This was the beginning of the cold war era, with NATO troops positioned in Western Europe, as a deterrent to any threat from the Russian zone to the east

Most flare up disputes around the world fell under the responsibilities of the United Nation and assigned to the Peace Keeping Forces of the World.

All the while Canadian and other NATO forces were positioned through out the Western Zone in Europe. In the early Sixties all military branches of the service were put on special alert during the Cuban crises between United States, Soviet Union and Cuba, on the verge of a Nuclear war, what could have been the threat of world war three. NATO’s military sea, land and air forces, were in something similar to a Peacekeeping Stance, although it was never recognized as such, by any of the United Nation member countries.

Shortly after Canada’s NATO Force mandate in Afghanistan changed to a combat operation, a group of five ex service members who had served under the NATO Flag that live in the Fredericton New Brunswick Area decided it was time that a NATO Veterans Organization should be established.

What started as a small branch of 10 members in Fredericton in March 2006 has blossomed to 840 plus Veterans to date and is still growing, with members both men and women through out the world in Australia, Belgium, Canada, England, New Zealand, Switzerland and United States.

In Canada there are now SIX branches, Br.1-HQ- Fredericton, NB. Br.2-Greater Toronto, Br.3- Ottawa/Gatineau, Br.4- St Julien Quebec, Br.5- Cambridge Area, Br.6- Manitoba Area, and a new Br.7 on the verge of being formed in Alberta.

The Cambridge Area branch 5 was established July 29- 2008 with the required mandatory member head count of 10, to start a branch. Our numbers have grown to 30 members, of which two are women. Excluding HQ, this branch has the second largest branch membership in Canada.

Our Veterans have served on Navy, Army and Air Force assignments, around the world.

Most are also active members of Military Associations in one of three branches of the Armed Forces, and or the Royal Canadian Legion Branches in areas where they reside, such as, Brantford, Cambridge, Dundas, Fergus, Guelph, Kitchener, Mount Hope and Waterloo.

All our members have access to application forms, if you wish to join the organization and our branch 5.

I invite you to have a look at our webpage, NATO Veterans Organization, where you will find a NATO Poster along with information of who we are

And what we are about, plus the Aims and Objectives of the Organization.

In closing, I would like to thank the organizers who are responsible for to-days event, for with out them this ceremony would not be taking place.

Finally, I’ll ask all of you during today’s silence to please remember the 587 NATO Armed Forces, and their 926 dependents, buried in Europe during the cold war. Also the 116 Military Forces, One Diplomat & Three Civilian Aid workers killed in Afghanistan, that are fresh in our minds.

I thank you for your patience, "Pacem et Libertas", Peace and Liberty. Thank you again for attending and enjoy the rest of your day.

2014 Lahr Reunion

Sadly I have been informed that the Kanada Haus is shutting down in
November or sooner. With the drop in membership and lack of
interest/involvement the time has come to close. I also understand that
their lease was due to expire and wouldn’t be renewed, so they would
have had to find another home. With the loss of membership and
interest, funds dwindled, so shutting down seemed to be the only option.

On a positive note, people are still willing to help out when it comes to reunions in Lahr.

If there is enough interest in having one in the spring of 2014
(early May??), then let’s do it. The last two reunions were in the fall,
so to be fare to all, maybe it’s time to have a spring one. I have been
checking on Rhine River cruises, there is one that leaves Amsterdam and
ends in Strasbourge; I think it is 8 days. With this cruise it would be
easy to get to Lahr by train, or if enough people were on the cruise we
might be able to arrange a bus to take us to Lahr.

After the cruise we could have a 4 - 6 day reunion in Lahr, then
people could spend more time in Lahr, go off and see other parts of
Europe or head back home. As this is 4 years away, it is to soon to get
prices for a cruise, a lot could happen in the next 4 years.

I will wait for some feed back before putting this on web pages and
Facebook. If anyone has suggestions or recommendations, feel free to
e-mail me.

A Good speech, I thought

The following speech was delivered by Prime Minister Stephen Harper today to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the liberation of Holland

“Thanks to Minister Blackburn for that kind introduction and for his excellent work as Minister of Veterans’ Affairs. “I’d like to welcome also Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende, I understand you’re on the campaign trail, it is much appreciated that you would take the time to join us here today. Mayor (Han) Polman (Mayor of Bergen op Zoom) CDS General (Walter) Natynczyk. It’s also a pleasure to have British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell here with us, Minister Van Loan, ladies and gentlemen, honoured guests, students, and above all, distinguished veterans:

“It is my profound honour on behalf of the Government of Canada and all Canadians to greet you today. To greet you here, at this place of solemn remembrance, where the intense sadness of a distant time is lifted by our deepest national pride. One does not measure theworth of a man in gold, nor the legacy of a country in centuries. Certainly, our beloved Canada is not ancient among the nations. However, by their actions, our forefathers have decided this for the generations that came after them:

“They have decided that our priceless heritage should be one of standing on guard not only for our country, but for the underlying principles that make it great: freedom, democracy and justice. Thus it was at Vimy, more than 90 years ago, when Canadians stood firm against imperialism.

“And thus it was in 1944, the year the First Canadian Army tore this land from the tyrant’s fist. This army, more than 175,000 Canadians reinforced by Dutch and allied forces, fought its way from Normandy to Rotterdam, field by field, canal by canal, dyke by daunting dyke. They crossed deep, boot-sucking mud. They passed over ground heavily mined. They navigated flooded lowlands, the water sometimes too high to wade through, but too shallow for boats. And around them, and before them always, the dreadful rattle of the machine gun. “More than seven and a half thousand Canadians gave their lives so that the people of the Netherlands could live again. Here, in the Bergen-op-Zoom war cemetery, 968 of them rest forever. A sceptic would ask why? These Canadians did not fight for their country’s gain. It was not for the sake of our power in the world, for the riches of our citizens, or even hatred of the foe they faced.

“No, this army of Canadians fought then for the only thing their country fights to this day: That which is right. For the right of human beings to share in the freedom and peace that we as Canadians enjoy. For that alone, Canadians have answered the call. And for that, we are eternally proud.

“Ladies and gentlemen, when the living comes to salute the dead, our words speak loudest to those whose lives still lay ahead of them. In this, the age-old act of remembrance, we gather not to call out a requiem for those for whom we speak it, are not here. Their gallant souls are long departed, gone from the site they last beheld not far from here - to a place far gentler of which it is said, “There shall be no more death, Neither sorrow, nor crying, Neither shall there be any more pain.” No, they shall rest in peace. We have come together to greet their comrades, while yet we may and to declare to new generations that, in such a place as this, you may understand how our land, Canada, gives birth to greatness. Would you know what heroism is? Look here. Would you know what it means to be a citizen? Look here. Would you, a lifetime awaiting you, know how you should live? Then look here, and look about you. Where only heroes rest. Where only those remain, who drank the full cup of a citizen’s duty.

“Where, a lifetime ago, young men freely and of their own accord, relinquished the years they had been given, to free a people and to lift a curse. Yes, my friends, in a place such as this, surrounded by the graves of so many brave young souls, the past speaks wordlessly to the future. In the face of such deeds, words seem small acknowledgement.

“Nevertheless, to those remaining members of this once-mighty army here with us today, we say thank you. We salute you. And, we honour you. You, and those of your comrades who lie around you here.

“We also honour our Dutch hosts for their alliance with us in Afghanistan these past years, and for their eternal friendship. “The bonds of our friendship were forged under fire, bonds that have been reinforced ever since in so many ways.

“Let me name just two.

“First, our comradeship in arms in Afghanistan these past few years, where together our countries have continued to uphold our highest ideals.

“And then, every spring in our nation’s capital, there is the eternal celebration, of our friendship, christened by the gift of your beautiful tulips.

“They are a reminder that, during the war, it was our country’s privilege to offer shelter to members of the Dutch royal family.

“And, at this very moment, they bloom triumphantly.

“I’d like to close my remarks with a quote from a letter written by the editors of a Dutch weekly, a farewell to Canadians returning home after the war:“ our dear Queen, her child and grandchildren are safely in our midst again [.] That was your work. We can say again what we like to say We have coal for our stoves and food for our children. That was your work.”

“All of this was the work of those you see before you, and of those who you do not see, but who are with us nonetheless.

“We owe the dead only this, to live today as nobly as they gave their lives.

FCWM May E-bulletin

We have some anniversaries to let you know about this month, and some sad news to pass along.

May Celebrations

May is celebration month for the Canadian War Museum, and The Friends, as well as the 65th Anniversary of D-Day. On May 8, the CWM celebrates 5 years of the new museum building with several activities planned for the day. Similarly, the Friends celebrate its 25th Anniversary on May 30 with a special day at the War Museum. Many other activities are also happening related to the 65th Anniversary of the Victory in Europe, and the Liberation of Holland. Visit the web site and check out the current year events on the Friends web site for more information. For details of the Museum's May 8 program go to the CWM web site.

Recognition of Canadian Korean War Veterans

In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the start of the Korean War, the Korean Government is planning a special recognition of Canadian Veterans of the Korean War. As a result, the Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs in Korea has requested the names of all living Canadian War Veterans. If you or someone you know served in Korea with the allied forces (1950 -1953) or as a Peacekeeper(1953 - 1955) please contact:

Mark your calendars! The Annual General Meeting of the Friends of the Canadian War Museum will be held on June 10, 2010 at 1900 hours at the Museum. Hope to see you there.

Friends Book Sale

For the 5th year in a row, the Friends will be having an 'Outreach' Book Sale at Carlingwood Mall is confirmed for Saturday 15th May 2010. If you are in the area, please drop by and pick up an interesting book or two. --

If you know of any events that you think might be of interest to our fellow friends, please send me an email and I will help get the word out.

Regards,
Victor Vaivads

Help us grow our membership. Pass this email along, or tell people you know about the Friends. Information on joining the Friends can be found at http://www.friends-amis.org/become_friends_e.html

Eggert, Egan E.

Eggert, Egan E. - Egan left us on Thursday, April 29th, 2010. A loving, caring, husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife June Carolyn Eggert of St. Andrews, NB, his step mother Maria Eggert, daughter Tara Koechel and her husband Martin of Bedford, New Hampshire, two grandchildren Shannn, Kevin, half sister Brigitte, half brother Harold. Friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life on Sunday, May 2nd, 2010 at 2:00 PM at All Saints Anglican Church St. Andrews, NB followed by a reception to be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Passamaquoddy Branch - St. Andrews

And book reviews of "In the Footsteps of First Canadian Army", "Uprising", "FOB DOC", "Intrepid Warriors", and "Courage Rewarded".

ON TRACK is the CDA Institute's defence quarterly journal and your valued source for informed commentary on national and international security and defence issues. Please feel free to send us your articles, thoughts and suggestions for publication to: pao@cda-cdai.ca

The CDA Institute is a charitable and non-partisan organization whose mandate is to provide research support to the CDA and promote informed public debate on security and defence issues. The CDA Institute is dependant on private donations; it is a registered charity and donations to it are tax deductible. In return, donors will receive ON TRACK and other publications for the next 12 months.

For more information on becoming a donor to the CDA Institute please visit: www.cda-cdai.ca/cdai/become-a-donor

Afghanistan: - the Pentagon Report

In this week's media briefing, the Conference of Defence Associations (CDA) would like to draw your attention to media coverage in the areas of:
- AFGHANISTAN
- CANADA AND AFGHANISTAN
- NUCLEAR POLICY
- RECOMMENDED READING

--- AFGHANISTAN ---
The Institute for the Study of War has produced its fifth Report on Afghanistan entitled, Politics and Power in Kandahar, which outlines key findings and recommendations for the ISAF mission. http://www.understandingwar.org/report/politics-and-power-kandahar

Kellie Tranter for National Times criticizes the lack of parliamentary debate in Australia about the war in Afghanistan. http://www.watoday.com.au/opinion/politics/where-is-the-debate-on-the-war-in -afghanistan-20100423-thux.html

Thom Shanker, Helene Cooper and Richard A. Oppel Jr. for The New York Times reports that elite US units have stepped up operations in Kandahar in anticipation of ISAF’s major, and decisive campaign for the heartland of the Taliban insurgency. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/26/world/asia/26kandahar.html?emc=eta1

Seth G Jones for Foreign Affairs argues that centralized governance will not rebuild Afghanistan, without ground up development at the village level. http://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/66350/seth-g-jones/it-takes-the-villa ges

Kim Senguptain The Independent writes that the British military is split over a plan to shift British troops from Helmand to Kandahar. http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/british-military-split-over-pla n-to-move-troops-to-kandahar-1955139.html

Greg Bruno Staff Writer for the Council on Foreign Relations interviews David S. Rohde a reporter for the New York Times concerning miscalculations in America’s strategy in southern Afghanistan. http://www.cfr.org/publication/21863

Rajiv Chandrasekaran for The Washington Post reports that US Special Forces soldiers organized local Afghans into effective village watch groups, but scaling the initiative has been barred until it receives official Afghan endorsement. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/26/AR2010042604 215.html?hpid=topnews

Ahmed Rashid for The Washington Post contends that President Obama must decide now, whether he will engage the Taliban. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/26/AR2010042603 020.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Seth G Jones for Foreign Affairs reviews three books that provide a deeper understanding of Afghan culture and society, revealing that the Taliban have to beaten at the village level. http://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/66350/seth-g-jones/it-takes-the-villa ges

Sabrina Tavernise, Carlotta Gall and Ismail Khan for The New York Times write that Pakistan’s seems more willing to attack Pakistani militant groups in North Waziristan, representing a marked shift in its military thinking. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/30/world/asia/30pstan.html

AND Kronos International writes that President Karzai rejected a Pentagon report that argued he lacks criticial areas of support in Afghanistan needed to beat the insurgency. http://www.adnkronos.com/AKI/English/Politics/?id=3.1.321263344

Baoky N. Vu for The Washington Times provides a comparative analysis of the Vietnam War to the War in Afghanistan. http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/apr/30/slow-going-on-the-path-towar d-democracy/

Alissa J Rubin for The New York Times writes that a new Pentagon report identifies pockets of success in Afghanistan but overall there has been little progress in the past six months. Donna Miles for the American Forces Press Service writes that Afghanistan’s stability and secuirty according to the report, has improved since this time last year. The report entitled, “Report on Progress Toward Security and Stability in Afghanistan”, can be accessed via the third link. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/30/world/asia/30afghan.html

--- CANADA AND AFGHANISTAN ---
Ethan Baron for Canwest News explores the differences between two Afghan villages that have received Canadian funding for development projects, citing one that has squandered the money and another which has made marked progress. http://www.canada.com/tale+villages+Stark+differences+between+neighbouring+A fghan+towns/2943785/story.html

Murray Brewster for The Canadian Press reveals that Canada’s signature projects are not in line with Kandahar’s perceived needs. http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/capress/100425/national/afghan_cda_development

Murray Brewster for The Canadian Press shares the experience of Canadian soldiers, in Charlie Company who have recently returned from a tour of duty, some completing their first tour and others veterans of the mission. http://thechronicleherald.ca/Front/9016148.html

Allan Woods for The Star recounts the story of Canada’s JTF2 commandos participation in Task Force K-Bar, for the first time following a Toronto Star investigation. http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/afghanmission/article/800296--canada-s-el ite-commandos-and-the-invasion-of-afghanistan?bn=1

Andrew Potter for Macleans writes on what “Afghan Canadians think of our role in Afghanistan,” following an event organized by the Afghan solidarity committee at which former Canadian Ambassador, Chris Alexander’s paper was discussed. The paper, entitled, Ending The Agony: Seven Moves To Stabilize Afghanistan, is available through the second link. http://www2.macleans.ca/2010/04/27/our-afghan-comrades-have-a-few-things-to- say/

--- NUCLEAR POLICY ---
Victor David Hanson for The National Review posits that the “problem is not nuclear weapons, but who has them,” namely North Korea and Iran which should be the focus of future non-proliferation summits. http://article.nationalreview.com/432763/obamas-nuclear-naivety/victor-davis -hanson

John R Bolton for The Washington Times explores the dangers of America’s shrinking nuclear umbrella for friends and allies. http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/apr/28/folding-our-nuclear-umbrella /

Dimitri Simes for Time questions whether Obama is “overselling his Russia Arms Control Agreement,” masking the lack of real progress with exaggerated pronouncements of historic successes. http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1984882,00.html

Frank J. Gaffney Jr. for The Washington Times argues that Russia is equipped with an “Arsenal of Roguery,” which it is exporting to countries with serious repercussions for American security. http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2010/apr/28/arsenal-of-roguery/print/

Gary Schmitt and William Kristol for The Weekly Standard posit that America’s military is aging and does not have the funding to modernize. http://www.weeklystandard.com/articles/our-country%E2%80%99s-battles

Elisabeth Bumiller for The New York Times examines the backlash against power point presentations in the American military. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/27/world/27powerpoint.html?th&emc=th

Edward Wong for The New York Times writes that China is pursuing a strategy termed 'far sea defense,’ projecting its naval power from the Middle East to the Pacific shipping lanes. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/24/world/asia/24navy.html?emc=eta1

PEI NATO Veterans Organization

On behalf of John Profit, I wish to thank you all for attending the PEI NATO Veterans Organization at my house on Tuesday 27 April 2010. If you are interesting in viewing more information on this organization you can go to the following web site:

http://natoveterans.org/

Here you will find The Mission and Goals of the Organization, as well as a lot of other interesting information. There is also a Kit List page where you can order crests, badges etc.

All of you in attendance agreed that you would like to continue on in regards to having a PEI NATO Organization in PEI and since summer is coming the next meeting should be held in September. We will be in touch with you all and if you know of others please forward the info once it has been sent to you, probably the end of August beginning of September. At the next next meeting there will be more information as to Membership Dues (costs) and Membership Cards. Once we get ourselves organizationed, we will be setting up an executive committee. In the meantime if you have any suggestion, comments, ideas etc please feel free to send them to either myself or John Profit. Thank you all for the interest you have shown and I look forward to seeing you in the fall.

"Pacem et Libertas"

Debbie

Hi Cal.
This was our first meeting, as you can tell there is a interest. We as a group decided that through the summer we will be working on our recruitment posters. As most of the members will be doing things, our next meeting will be in Aug.. or Sept. What part of pur Dues stay with us?
Are they going up? Membership Cards etc?

John Profit

Commemoration of the 60th Anniversary

In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the start of the Korean War, the Korean Government is planning a special recognition of Canadian Veterans of the Korean War. As a result, the Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs in Korea has requested the names of all living Canadian War Veterans. If you or someone you know served in Korea with the allied forces (1950 -1953) or as a Peacekeeper (1953 - 1955) please contact:

testimony of Mr. Ahmadshah Malgarai

I would like to inform all members of the Canadian Forces that I have written to the Chair of the Special Committee on the Canadian Mission in Afghanistan regarding recent testimony of Mr. Ahmadshah Malgarai.

Here is the text of that letter.

W. J. Natynczyk General Chief of the Defence Staff

16 April 2010

Mr. Chair,

I am writing to you today to provide factual information following accusations made by Mr. Ahmadshah Malgarai on April 14th, 2010 before the Committee. Mr. Malgarai made a number of accusations in his appearance that are being looked into by the Canadian Forces, but by far the most egregious was that a Canadian Forces member unlawfully shot and killed an individual in 2007.

Based on the information disclosed in Mr. Malgarai’s testimony, the Canadian Forces have every reason to believe that we have identified the event in question.

During the night from the 18th and 19th of June 2007, a Canadian-led operation, supported by Afghan and coalition forces, was launched on a compound associated with IED-making activity. The compound was suspected to be a staging area for rocket attacks against Kandahar Airfield as well as IED attacks against Canadian and coalition soldiers. Details of this event are very well documented. A full year of intelligence gathering by the CF and its coalition partners was done before this Canadian-led operation.

Operation reports which unfortunately cannot be made public as they contain sensitive information about tactics, techniques and procedures, indicate that during the mission an armed individual posed a direct and imminent threat to CF soldiers as they entered the compound. A shooter who was providing support to the operation identified the individual and assessed that he was a threat, and shot the individual. The actions of the shooter were an appropriate application of the rules of engagement and saved the lives of a number of Canadian Forces members that night. This individual was armed and was never detained.

During the course of the operation, ten Afghans were detained. Nine of these detainees tested positive for explosive residue. In accordance with standard procedures, these detainees were taken to Kandahar Airfield where they were processed and determined to be uninjured and in good health. During tactical questioning of the detainees, two individuals made allegations that coalition forces had planted a pistol on the deceased insurgent. It is worth noting that one of the two individuals later retracted his allegation.

Immediately following the mission, an after-action review was conducted to review the actions and outcomes of the operation. It was determined that all applicable rules of engagement and theatre standing orders were followed.

As you are well aware, before transferring a detainee into Afghan custody, the Canadian Task Force Commander must be satisfied that there is no substantial grounds for believing that there exists a real risk that the detainee would be in danger of being subjected to torture or other forms of mistreatment at the hands of Afghan authorities. The Canadian Forces do not transfer individuals for the purposes of gathering information.

In this particular case, the Commander at the time considered all the relevant information at his disposal and made the determination to transfer all ten individuals to the NDS in order to allow Afghan authorities to determine whether criminal prosecution was warranted. This is in accordance with our detainee transfer arrangements with the Government of Afghanistan. All individuals transferred were properly monitored and tracked through Canada’s monitoring mechanisms.

I want all committee members to know that the Canadian Forces take all allegations seriously and will investigate new allegations appropriately. Whenever there have been specific allegations, the Canadian Forces have not hesitated to act. As a result of Mr. Malgarai’s testimony, the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service is conducting an investigative assessment. And we welcome any individual who has any relevant information about this event to come forward and provide a sworn statement.

It is important for committee members as well as Canadians to recognize that we are conducting operations in a hostile environment. The Canadian Forces have always been and remain committed to ensuring that detainees are handled and transferred in accordance with our obligations under international law. We believe in upholding the values of justice, respect for human rights and the dignity of the individual.

Finally, I think that it is important to keep in mind the good work that the men and women are doing in Afghanistan. Since the beginning of our engagement in Afghanistan, some 30,000 soldiers, sailors and airmen and women have helped the people of Afghanistan build towards a brighter future. These men and women in uniform are in harm’s way. They are working on behalf of all Canadians in very difficult conditions and they continue to demonstrate great bravery and compassion.

I trust that this information gives you a clearer picture of what actually happened on the ground that evening in June 2007 and demonstrates the lengths to which the Canadian Forces go to ensure we conduct ourselves professionally, honourably and in accordance with the rule of law.